Bien Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bien Dam No. 2 Ringer Wpa
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Bien Dam, located in Marshall, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure constructed by the USDA NRCS in 2006.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet, with a spillway width of 20 feet. It is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The dam, situated on TR Wild Rice Creek, serves a primary purpose that is not specified in the data. However, it is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. Despite being ungraded in its condition assessment, Bien Dam is maintained and monitored to meet state standards for safety and operation. With its controlled spillway and absence of outlet gates, the dam is designed to manage a maximum discharge of 270 cubic feet per second, providing crucial water resource management in the region.
Overall, Bien Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in Marshall, South Dakota, contributing to flood control, irrigation, and environmental conservation efforts. Its presence reflects the collaborative effort between private owners, government agencies, and designers to ensure the sustainability and safety of water infrastructure in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bien Dam serves as a fascinating example of how human-made structures can effectively balance water management needs with environmental considerations.
Year Completed |
2006 |
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR WILD RICE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wild Rice River Nr Rutland
|
21cfs |
Little Minnesota River Near Peever
|
27cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
Bear Creek Nr Oakes
|
5cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
Bois De Sioux River Near White Rock
|
60cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Bien Dam